Google’s entry as a DNS server provider (read: Google Public DNS) has caused quite a stir on the Internet. Some users have experienced privacy concerns while others have started testing and using the new DNS servers right away. The tests so far were inconclusive leaving the individual user with no choice but to benchmark the DNS servers to discover the fastest and most reliable one.
Namebench is a free and portable software program for Microsoft Windows, Linux and Apple Macintosh computers that can perform these DNS benchmarks for the user. The program will automatically discover the DNS servers that are currently used by the connections and add those to a list of available public DNS servers. The computer user has furthermore the chance to add further DNS servers to the benchmark.
Namebench will then take website samples from a web browser’s history file. It will by default pick the web browser with the largest history giving the user the choice to switch to another web browser in the benchmark preparations. The number of tests and the number of runs can be configured in the interface as well.
The test can take some time which largely depends on the number of runs and tests but also on the number of DNS servers that have been added by the user to the program. Namebench will then calculate the best nameservers and generate a local webpage with the test results.
The performance increase (or decrease) along with the nameservers that need to be configured for it are displayed on top of the report.
A detailed report follows that displays the test results of the tested DNS servers. This includes their IP, average, minimum and maximum response time, errors, no answers and notes.
Various graphs are displayed in the end that display the response times of the tested DNS servers.
Namebench can be downloaded from it’s Google Code project page. (via Download Squad)
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no Level 3?
Good move Google.
I ran this test about 8 different times on my DSL connection, switching IP’s about every other test. It was completely inconclusive. However, speed isn’t the only issue when looking for a DNS.
UltraVPN (NeuStar), Level 3, and Google have all been labeled anti P2P and have sold data in the past. Reading the terms of service shows that OpenDNS is the best choice. Granted, the redirects aren’t ideal, but no worse than clicking on an ad to support your favorite blog.
the program didn’t work on my XP SP3, 4GB, GeForce GTS 250, Emerge Shell, Comodo Firewall, Avira anti-virus, etc., etc., or it took FOREVER to begin searching for something…
Try the “Domain Name Speed Benchmark” @ http://www.grc.com/dns/benchmark.htm instead.
I did, and guess where Google 8.8.8.8 DNS address is laying? Down below the list of the test results. Don’t mention the 8.8.4.4 address, it doesn’t respond to DNS queries.
My two-cents, I may be wrong.
Surf’s up, dudes and dudetes !!
Sorry, 8.8.8.8 wasn’t down below as in way below, 15 out of 60.
Testing done using Miami connection.
I do know that DNS effectiveness fluctuates on a regional basis, and even more on an intercontinental level, but Google server shows up on my test results below Bellsouth, Comcast, Speakeasy, United Telephone Company, The Planet, Sprint, and four Level 3 Comminications.
Interestingly enough, the Google public DNS servers is owned by Level 3 Communications… food for thoughts.
I need coffee with something in it…
I’ve used dns bench
http://www.itcoolnews.com/157/opendns-vs-google-public-dns-dns-benchmark.htm
Just another way that Google plans on world domination. :)
Tried this software here, turns out my ISP has the fastest DNS for me, so much for google’s new kick-ass DNS.
Tried that great tool… 102% improvement!
Sys admins of my ISP should be punished…
pretty good thanks